Tributes are pouring in from across Nigeria and beyond following the announcement of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s death in London at the age of 82.
Prominent political figures and influential personalities have expressed profound sadness and offered their condolences, reflecting on his legacy and service to the nation.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan conveyed his grief with a “heavy heart and profound sense of national loss.”
He remembered Buhari as a “notable leader, patriot, and elder statesman” who served Nigeria “to the best of his abilities” in both military and civilian capacities.
Jonathan highlighted Buhari’s courage, discipline, integrity, and selflessness, stating that Nigeria has lost “one of its foremost leaders” and he, a “respected colleague and elder.”
Jonathan extended condolences to the Buhari family, the people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians, praying for divine forgiveness and eternal rest for the deceased.
Also, Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President, described the news of Buhari’s passing as deeply saddening, characterising his life by “unflinching patriotism, stoic discipline, and a lifelong commitment to the sovereignty and unity of our great nation.”
Atiku hailed Buhari as “a symbol of Nigeria’s resilience,” whose service from “the battlefield to the corridors of power” demonstrated a “soldier of principle and a leader of formidable will.”
He mourned Buhari’s death as a “profound national tragedy,” offering deepest condolences to the family and praying for strength and comfort.
READ ALSO
More so, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, acknowledged the “very sad news” of Buhari’s death, describing it as a “solemn moment” for the entire nation.
Obi commended Buhari for consistently comporting himself “in a dignified manner as a leader” and extended his deepest condolences to the former President’s family and all Nigerians.
He prayed for divine mercy, forgiveness of shortcomings, and reward for his service to the nation.
Furthermore, World Trade Organisation (WTO) Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala expressed profound shock at the news.
She revealed her disbelief, stating, “Unbelievable! I did not know just how ill President Buhari was, and minutes after sending my well wishes, I have just learned that he passed away. I am so very sad.”
Okonjo-Iweala extended her deepest condolences to the entire Buhari family and his close associates.
Renowned businessman Femi Otedola also conveyed his deep sadness, remembering Buhari as “a man of great honour, discipline, and quiet strength.”
Otedola highlighted Buhari’s “unwavering dedication” to Nigeria as both a soldier and a statesman, emphasising that his “love for our country was unquestionable.”
He described his personal interactions with Buhari as finding him “thoughtful, principled, and always respectful,” noting that Buhari “believed in the Nigerian project.”
Otedola wished that Buhari’s legacy would endure and his soul find perfect peace.
